Maharashtra, having over 7,000 kms of national and state highways, today became the first state to have a website dedicated to road safety and curb mishaps.

The first of its kind website, www.highwaypolicems.in, has been developed by the Highway Police and was launched by Home Minister R R Patil.

"After natural deaths, road mishaps claim over 12,000 lives annually. A major chunk of the casualties are because of delayed medical aid. Now, with the help of this website, people can get information of nearest hospitals or police station whenever needed," said R R Patil.

Enlisting the features of the web portal, B G Shekhar, Superintendent of Police, Highways, said it has detailed information on Motor Vehicle Act, rules and regulations, fine to be imposed in case of its violations and road signs.

Other features include updates on traffic jams on highways state-wide, numbers of stolen vehicles and photographs of suspects.

Another highlight of the website is that since it is connected to Google maps, it can be accessed even on a mobile when on move, Shekhar added.